The Effects of ZrO2 or Tic on the Performance of the Alumina-Based Ceramic Cutting Tools

Two types of alumina-based cutting tools with compositions of 90 vol.% Al2O3+10 vol.% ZrO2 and 80 vol.% A12O3+20 vol.% TiC are produced by isostatic pressing and sintering technique. The effects of these additives on the mechanical properties and cutting performance of these materials are investigated. The tool life in both materials is examined under identical conditions on cutting a grey cast Iron of grade 14. At a cutting speed of 550 m/min., a feed rate of 0.25 mm/rev., and a cutting depth of 2 mm, the material containing TiC with an optimal tool life of 27 minutes, is found to be superior to the ZrO2 containing material which had an optimal tool life of 25 minutes. The possible role of these additives on the performance of these materials are discussed.